The Block’s Dan Reilly and Dani Wales share family heartbreak as their newborn daughter tragically dies

The Block stars Dan Reilly and Dani Wales have revealed that their newborn daughter has tragically passed away.

The reality TV couple shared the devastating news on Instagram on Friday that their daughter Billie Vera Reilly passed away on Wednesday at just 10 days old.

They posted a photo of themselves with their arms around each other as they stood by their daughter’s bedside in the hospital.

In a heartbreaking tribute, Dani shared her “insurmountable” grief and said she and Dan both feel “honored” to be Billie’s parents.

They wrote: ‘Billie Vera Reilly 8/12/24 – 18/12/24. It is with insurmountable sadness that we share the news that our daughter Billie, just 10 days old, has passed from this life to the next.

“In Billie’s short time in this world, she has taught us an intensity of both love and pain that we never thought possible. She taught us what really matters.

‘Billie was so wanted, so loved and she made us parents… and what an honor it is to be her mum and dad. She will always be our daughter.

“We are clear that Billie was far too good for this world, but if there is one thing we know for certain, it is that Billie’s legacy will have an impact greater than any of us.

“Thank you @mrskevinsphotos for taking such beautiful family photos for us and also to @heartfelt_ausnz for capturing many of Billie’s firsts.”

Dani then encouraged people to make a donation to the Royal Women’s Hospital in Billie’s honor via their in memoriam fundraising page.

She wrote: ‘We would like to give a special shout out to ‘Billie’s Besties’ at @theroyalwomens – the nurses, doctors and staff in the NICU are some of the most incredible people to walk this earth and we will be forever grateful for the care and love they gave our girl, and us.

‘If you are able to do so, you can make a donation to the Royal Women’s Hospital in Billie’s honor via the link (linked in bio).’

A huge $3,640 has already been raised through their fundraising campaign for the NICU consultants, nurses and staff at the hospital in Randwick, Sydney.

Dani emotionally signed off her post by asking for privacy and telling their followers that they will share more about Billie’s story in the future.

Dan and Dani first gained national attention when they appeared on the series The Block in 2012 and tied the knot in 2018.

“Finally, we understand that there will be questions, and many answers we do not yet have answers to,” she added.

“We will share more in due course, but for now we ask for privacy as we process this together and with our loved ones.

‘You look so beautiful, beautiful as the sun. I could watch forever as you shine on everyone.” We love you, Billie.’

The couple was inundated with heartfelt messages of condolence from their friends and followers.

Nadia Bartel said: ‘I’m so sorry. I send you love, strength and light.’

The Block’s Tess and Luke shared: ‘Oh Dan and Dani – there are absolutely no words. Sending you all so much love and strength. Billie is so beautiful. I think about you non-stop. We’re so sorry.’

Michael and Carlene Duffy wrote: “Oh Dan and Dani, we are so so sorry. Your beautiful girl. There really are no words, but I hope you feel everyone’s collective arms around you. You will be in our thoughts.’

Elyse Knowles wrote: ‘Omgosh danni and Dan! I am truly sorry for your loss and experience! Sending my deepest love and comfort to you both! Take care of yourself and surround yourself with love. love Elyse and Josh xxxxxxxxx.”

On The Block, the couple took second place and a significant $448,000 and are now a major part of the reality TV series, with Dan as Foreman.

Dan and Dani had announced in a post on Instagram in July that they were expecting their first child together.

Dan and Dani first gained national attention when they appeared on the series The Block in 2012.

The couple, who were dating at the time, took second place and a significant $448,000.

The pair returned in 2013 for the Block All Stars series, finishing with third place and $220,000 in winnings.

Dan has since taken on a role as Foreman on the show and they also host the Dan vs Dani series, where they critique each team’s Room Reveals each week.

The couple tied the knot in 2018 in an intimate ceremony on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.